The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) is the statutory body set up under the Veterinary Practice Act 2005 and it is under the aegis of the Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The principal function of the VCI is to regulate the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary nursing in the Republic of Ireland, in the public interest and in the interest of animal welfare and veterinary public health. The statutory function of the VCI is to ensure that all registered persons meet the necessary standards in terms of professional conduct, competence, education and skills to perform their duties properly and professionally, in accordance with prescribed codes of professional conduct and ethics and in accordance with legislative requirements. The Council has nineteen members who are appointed by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
For more information, please visit: Veterinary Council of Ireland.
The Role
The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer will lead an energetic and efficient team, manage and generally control the administration and business of the Council. The appointed person will be responsible for implementing the decisions of the Council and for delivering on legislative requirements and statutory responsibilities, as set out in the Veterinary Practice Act 2005.
The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer will support, guide and make proposals to the Council and will communicate Council decisions to external stakeholders. Reporting to the Council, the successful candidate will work closely with the President to provide strategic leadership, direction and stewardship across all elements of the organisation. Building on a clear vision for the VCI, the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer will be responsible for the delivery of long-term goals, ensuring the effectiveness of the Council in all areas including governance, statutory, procedural, education accreditation, risk management and legal matters. The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer will also have responsibility for the maintenance of the registers of Veterinary Practitioners, Veterinary Nurses and Certificates of Suitability for practice premises.
Qualifications & Skills
* Extensive knowledge of the relevant Irish, EU and international regulatory frameworks
* Significant understanding of best practice governance frameworks
* Exemplary Team Leadership, Interpersonal and Communication skills
* Educated to Degree level or equivalent, in a relevant discipline
* An understanding of Veterinary Practice, or an equivalent area, is desirable but not essential
To pursue your interest, please email a comprehensive CV and supporting letter to:
Luke Freeley, Partner, Lansdowne Executive Search. Email:
For a confidential discussion, please contact Luke Freeley at
Closing Date for receipt of applications is 12:00 Noon, Friday 20th February 2026.
Candidates for this role will be sourced through both advertised and executive search processes.